Elevating My Craft: Insights from the Intrigue Across America Tour - 2025 Luxury Floral Installation Workshop in Raleigh, NC

Raleigh Creative Partners

Host: @styledshootsacrossamerica

Planning: @heatherbengeofficial & @alexiawoolumssaa

Assistant Planners: @ashevents @nicolelouise.coutureevents

Venue:@donovanmanor

Flowers: @intrigueteaches Workshop led by @intrigue_designs

Local Floral Support:@expressionsoflovefloristnc

Software Support: @detailsflowers

Wholesale Flowers: @jetfreshflowers

Supplies:@oasisfloralproductsnamerica

Linens:@nuagedesignsinc

Rentals:@curatedeventsraleigh

Hair & Makeup:@beautifully.wed

Stationery: @santinaamendoladesign

Cake:@artsycakesy

Gowns:@pronovias

Bridesmaid Dresses:@bellabridesmaidsraleigh

Jewelry:@latelier.tsubomi

Shoes:@somethingbleu_

Vintage Car:@carolinaclassiccarrentals

Styling Mats: @theflatlaysstyler

Ring Boxes:@lovelyringboxes

Models: @beckyscullin & @fite__club @_bakerthebaker @that.tall.girl

2025 Luxury Installation Workshop Presented by Intrigue Designs & Styled Shoots Across America (SSAA). Raleigh, North Carolina. Color Story: Sweet Blush.

As a business owner, I’m always looking for ways to expand my capabilities in order to offer my clients the very best. That's why I was beyond excited when the opportunity came up to attend Sarah Campbell’s 2025 Luxury Installation Workshop during her Intrigue Across America Tour—right here in Raleigh, NC.

I first discovered Sarah when I was just starting out in my floristry journey. I stumbled across The Big Flower Fight on Netflix, where Sarah showcased her incredible talent and innovative floral designs. I immediately became a fan and started following her work. I knew that one day, I would invest in one of her workshops in order to take my floral designs to the next level. That opportunity arrived sooner than I expected when Sarah announced her tour stops for 2025; one of which would take place at the Donovan Manor, March 10 - 11. I couldn’t let the experience pass me by!

This workshop was a transformative experience, and I'm thrilled to share what I learned, how it’s helped me expand my design capabilities, and how it will allow me to offer even more impactful designs to my clients—whether using fresh or silk flowers.

Mastering the Art of Large-Scale Installations: 

One of the highlights of the workshop was learning how to design and execute breathtaking floral installations on a grand scale (in this case, we covered the entire facade of Donovan Manor!). From dramatic floral chandeliers to mantles and staircases, workshop attendees learned advanced techniques to transform any space into something extraordinary.

Monica proudly stands in front of Donovan Manor, showcasing a stunning 2-story facade transformation adorned with fresh flowers and vines. The installation is complemented by two 8-ft handcrafted paper blooms, adding a uniquely artistic touch to this elegant display.

Sarah guided us through the mechanics behind creating large, cohesive designs that are both structurally sound and visually stunning. While the workshop focused on fresh flowers, the design principles—such as composition, balance, and texture—are universal and can be applied to my sustainable silk floral designs as well. Now, whether I’m creating a stunning floral arch with fresh blooms or a more lasting piece with high-quality silk flowers, I can ensure that every installation is structurally sound while looking perfect in its space, no matter the size or setting.

Why Silk Flowers are the Key to Lasting, Impactful Designs:

One of the most exciting takeaways from the workshop was the ability to apply the principles I learned to silk flowers—my true specialty. What many people don’t realize is that many florists incorporate the use of silk flowers into their installations to achieve the same striking visuals as fresh flowers, with the added benefits of durability and flexibility.

Silk flowers are especially ideal for large-scale events, where longevity is important. Fresh flowers may wilt or lose their vibrancy over the course of a long event, but silk flowers retain their beauty throughout, ensuring your design holds up through every moment.

Expanding My Capabilities for Unique Client Needs:

The workshop has given me the tools to offer even more dynamic floral pieces for my clients, including whimsical floral chandeliers, one-of-a-kind ceremony backdrops, and stunning entrance arrangements that leave a lasting impression at any event. Each piece is thoughtfully designed with the architecture and surroundings in mind, ensuring a seamless integration of their final placement within a space.

An artful wedding cake surrounded by a fully customized floral meadow that cascades off the table, creating a lush, romantic atmosphere. Above, a stunning hanging floral chandelier mirrors the soft pink and blush tones of the event, completing this breathtaking reception floral display.

Whether you prefer the natural elegance of fresh flowers or the lasting beauty of silk flowers, I'll create the look that suits your vision perfectly.

I’ve always aimed to provide my clients with a truly bespoke experience, and this workshop has helped me take that a step further by offering new design possibilities. My work now embraces larger-than-life installations that not only create impactful and lasting memories but also align with my dedication to sustainable practices.

Monica placing an arrangement of "Miss Piggy" roses onto the tablescape with her mentor, Sarah Campbell beside her.

The Good Stuff; a Sneak Peek into the Workshop Experience: 

Over two action-packed days, I worked side-by-side with other designers and business owners and learned invaluable lessons.

On Day 1, Sarah shared her personal experiences and insights on building a 7-figure floral business, focusing on common mistakes and social media strategies to help florists elevate their brand. Like me, she is completely self-taught. She highlighted the highs and lows in her own business journey, and provided innumerable examples of how she turned tribulation into triumph. Her tips in this session helped me refine my approach to marketing, social media, and client relationships.

On Day 2, the real magic happened. We got hands-on with creating large-scale floral installations, using fresh flowers and learning techniques like proper hydration, wiring, and building the foundation for large pieces (yes, we must also be masters at engineering!). The workshop allowed me to not only learn from Sarah's expertise but also from my fellow florists, who each brought something unique to the table.

Monica immersed in design work featuring a large centerpiece display for a head table.

Bringing Your Vision to Life: 

No matter the event—whether an intimate wedding, corporate gathering, or private celebration—these expanded techniques now allow me to bring your floral vision to life with even more creativity. My commitment to crafting personal, fresh, and unique designs has only grown, incorporating more impactful displays that will leave a lasting impression long after your event is over.

By blending the techniques I learned from Sarah with my commitment to sustainability and the use of high-quality silk flowers, I’m able to offer a variety of options that suit my client's needs. Whether you’re after something grand or subtle, fresh or faux, my goal is to ensure that your floral arrangements elevate your event and reflect your personal style.

Conclusion:

I’m so grateful for the opportunity to have attended the 2025 Luxury Floral Installation Workshop, as it’s empowered me with new knowledge and skills to continue offering the highest quality, most innovative designs for my clients.

If you'd like to see more behind-the-scenes action from this workshop or the final results of the fully styled shoot, head over to our social pages! You can find a few reels featuring all of the vendors who were involved on this project on our Instagram and Facebook!

Monica in front of the completed head table, in which she and her fellow workshop attendees have styled with large floral centerpieces atop glass stands, creating the illusion of floating clouds of blooms. Additional arrangements were artfully placed on the table to create an intimate, floral-filled setting for the bride and groom's reception.

If you’re ready to make a bold, beautiful statement at your next event, I’d be honored to help turn those floral wishes into a reality. Let’s create something unforgettable together.

With love and blooms,